How does Micro-dermabrasion Really Work?

You may have already heard of Micro-dermabrasion and be wondering if its something you should be considering to give your skin a boost, or you might have come across the term on the price list of your local clinic, but not actually know what it is. In this feature, we explore just exactly what is involved, and how Micro-dermabrasion works.

Brief History:

Up until a few years ago micro-dermabrasion was not available everywhere, and was mainly found in the US clinics, and used by Hollywood stars to make their skin look as flawless as possible under the glare of cameras. However, as with most procedures, it has now begun to be made availiable in clinics everywhere, and is a good alternative to a full facelift in order to give the skin a dewier glow.

What does the procedure involve?

Microdermabrasion is a general term for using tiny grains to buff away the top layer of skin. Chances are you have already done a form of this at home, such as exfoliating, but in clinics, this technology is far more advanced and is used to help rejuvenate the skin by renewing skin cells.

Sterile microparticls are delivered that abrade the very top layer of skin. The abraded skin, and particles are then vacumed off the surface of your skin.

But how does it work?

The skin is made up of two main layers which are called the dermis, and the epidermis. Whilst the dermis is the deeper layer, the epidermis is the portion of skin exposed to the elements, and this is where the skin can begin to look dull and rough. This is because most of these cells are dead cells. Underneath these are layers of new cells, which are maturing. The top layer is called the stratum corneum, and these are the cells exposed by microdermabrasion. These cells act as a wall between the dermis, and the other lower layers. The only let the tiniest molecules through.

The stratum corneum is the layer at which micro dermabrasion really works. Since microdermabrasion gets rid of the top layer of dead skin, at the epidermis, it doesn’t risk embedding the skin permanently with the tiny grains. The way it works is by removing and breaking up the stratum corneum. The body then sees this as a slight injury and then “heals” this by renewing the cells. This improves the skins surface and ensures that any moisturising creams and lotions work better on the new cells.

It can also remove some skin imperfections, such as sun damage, fine lines and even some blemishes. It can be particularly effective at unclogging pores, and many people use it for a treatment for acne. Studies have shown that it is possible to remove more significant blemishes with repeated courses of micro-dermabrasion and it can even affect how the new skin grows.

Are there any side effects?

The procedure is non-invasive, and produces minimal side affect. The skin may look a little red and swelled, whilst the skin rejuvenates and this can last from an hour to 2 days, depending on the patient's skin. Many people however, swear by the benefits and it can be a fantastic way to make your skin look healthier, without resulting to face lifts, acid peels and Botox.

So there you have it. Is there anything I missed? or do you have any other questions? Please feel free to ask in the comments below.

This post was written by Hannah Matthews, a specialist health writer and blogger.